Show Notes:

John Spencer shared his journey from enlisting in the Army in 1967 to his 26-year career, including service in the 82nd Airborne Division and overseas deployments. He discussed the impact of his military service on his personal and professional life. John also revealed his adoption at age six and his subsequent search for his biological family, which led to reconnecting with his five siblings. He detailed the challenges and breakthroughs in his genealogical research, including using DNA and professional help. John emphasized the importance of persistence and the profound impact of reconnecting with his biological family, despite initial frustrations.

Sponsored by F1 for Help

This episode is proudly sponsored by F1 for Help, providing expert computer repair and support in Kootenai County for over 20 years. Call (208) 687-0183 or visit www.f1forhelp.net for reliable service and a 10% discount for veterans and first responders.

Show Notes:
In this episode of The Veterans Club Podcast, host Ed Bejarana welcomes guest Ron Deady, a retired Air Force lieutenant colonel and veteran pilot. Ron shares his extensive experiences from his 22-year military career, which includes flying various aircraft during the Vietnam War and his involvement in strategic air command operations with nuclear weapons. He reflects on the psychological impacts of warfare, the moral complexities of military actions, and the critical importance of veteran communities in coping with past experiences. Ron emphasizes the transformative and often challenging aspects of military service, from the intense responsibilities of handling nuclear weapons to the personal toll it takes on family and personal life. The conversation deeply explores how shared experiences forge strong bonds among veterans, vital for their emotional support and understanding.

Sponsored by F1 for Help

This episode is proudly sponsored by F1 for Help, providing expert computer repair and support in Kootenai County for over 20 years. Call (208) 687-0183 or visit www.f1forhelp.net for reliable service and a 10% discount for veterans and first responders.

In this episode of The Veterans Club Podcast, host Ed Bejarana talks with Gulf War veteran and professional photographer Richard Sherman about his six-year journey to honor military heroes through his book, Never Home: Remembering the Military Heroes Who Never Returned. Richard shares poignant stories from his visits to 23 overseas cemeteries, reflecting on the profound sacrifice of service members and how their legacies can inspire future generations. The conversation highlights Richard's military experiences, the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, and the importance of veterans sharing their stories to preserve history and foster understanding.

Show Notes

Introduction: Ed shares a personal story about Thanksgiving and the camaraderie food creates within The Veterans Club.

Guest Spotlight: Richard Sherman, Navy veteran, author, and photographer, discusses his military service and transition to civilian life.

The Book: Insights into Never Home, a photographic journey honoring fallen heroes and their stories, featuring 54 biographies from World War I and II.

Key Takeaways:

• Lessons learned during service and their application in civilian life.
• The importance of preserving veterans' stories for future generations.
• Encouragement for veterans to start projects to share their unique perspectives.
• Call to Action: Visit NeverHomeHeroes.com to purchase Richard's book and learn more about his work.

Link to the book: www.neverhomeheroes.com

About Our Guest:

I received my commission from Navy OCS in 1989. I served with Tacron-21 as part of two Marine Amphibious Groups during Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm in the Persian Gulf and Eastern Mediterranean. I was then the Intel Officer at VF-43, an adversary squadron based out of Norfolk, VA. I left active duty after 4 years and while getting my MBA at Georgetown University, served at the Pentagon at an Intelligence Watch Center. I served 4 years on active duty and nearly 3 years in the Reserves.

The Veterans Club seeks partners committed to our mission of preventing suicide among veterans and first responders. To explore sponsorship opportunities and learn how your support can make a lasting impact, please contact Ed Bejarana at (208) 209-7170 or email info@theveteransclub.org. Join us in this vital cause.